Outdoor Safety & Ethics
As a visitor to the national forest, you’ll find many opportunities to explore nature and enjoy its many woodlands, river, lakes, and endless recreational activities. To take full advantage of what the national forest has to offer, we ask that you prepare in advance of each visit.
It’s important that you learn about the area, from its weather and terrain, to the rules and regulations that may govern your location or activity. Please also be considerate of other visitors, wildlife, and the lands that make up the forest.
Know Before You Go
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Be Bear Aware
Tips for minimizing risks in bear country
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Ticks
Information about protecting yourself and your pets before, during, and after your visit
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Hypothermia
Risk factors, prevention, symptoms, and treatment of cold-related illness
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Heat-Related Illness
Tips for preventing and treating heat stroke, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion
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Water Safety
Information about staying safe around water through all seasons
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If You Get Lost
The best tool needed for survival in the event you get lost outdoors is your skill of advanced planning.
Alerts & Warnings
- Safety reminders for hunting season
- Black Lake Campground To Re-Open July 1, 2024
- Trails and Roads Closed To Motorized, Equestrian, and Bicycle Use Until 5/1/24
- Prescribed Burning Planned for FY2024
- Closure on Forest Road 1666 (Black Lake Road) for motorized vehicles
- Closure on Iron River Trail between FR236 and FR242
- Trail Closure Order 09-13-23-02 Terminated
- Closure on Pipeline 4x4 Challenge Trail
- Aquatic Invasive Species decontamination required at Lake Owen and Two Lakes
- Closure Order (Lakewood-Laona, 2019 windstorm)